Makawao Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

Makawao
Haleakala National Park which includes landscape views and desert views
Haleakala National Park showing mountains, a sunset and tranquil scenes
Haleakala National Park which includes tranquil scenes
Haleakala National Park featuring landscape views and desert views

Reflective of Hawaii’s unique rural culture and artistic heritage, this town should be included in any trip to Maui.

When you visit Makawao, you might be surprised by the Western-style façades, steakhouses and signage with cowboy fonts. You have entered paniolo country. “Paniolo” is a Hawaiian name for a cowboy. Many paniolos are found in what is known here as Upcountry Maui. Come understand this piece of Hawaiian culture and experience Makawao’s artistic features. 

Pass the beautiful volcanic formation of Mount Haleakala as you drive into Makawao. The area’s grassy knolls and dramatic ocean views rival any others in Hawaii. Look for cattle with paniolos wrangling them into new grazing sites. 

Beyond its paniolo heritage, Makawao is known in Maui as a haven for artists. Stop at the Hui No’eau Visual Arts Centre, where local glassblowers, sculptors and painters exhibit works showcasing the unique beauty of the region. The charming, villa-style grounds of the museum are also wonderful for a warm afternoon walk. For another moment in an even more tranquil space, meander through the serene labyrinths of The Sacred Garden of Maliko.

For a taste of authentic local food you can get only in Makawao, buy a doughnut or pastry from Komoda Store & Bakery. Many tourists familiar with Maui will make a detour just to taste these rich treats once again. Arrive early for the best selection. Save room for delicious food from the pizzerias, bars, grills and traditional Hawaiian restaurants in the area. 

Drive 13 miles (20 kilometres) from Kahului to reach Makawao. Once you’re here, public parking is free and all attractions are walking distance from each other. Many people make Makawao a daytrip. Several upscale hotels and a few inns are here to accommodate your overnight stays. Wake up early to experience a sunrise as it graces the eastern Maui horizon.

Gods Peace Of Maui

Gods Peace Of Maui

2 out of 5
1290 Haliimaile Rd, Makawao, HI
The price is ฿5,378 per night from 10 Aug to 11 Aug
฿5,378
฿6,344 total
10 Aug - 11 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this spa B&B in Makawao. Enjoy free breakfast, free Wi-Fi and free parking. Popular attractions Hali imaile Farmer's Market and Hui Noʻeau Visual Arts ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (22 reviews)
"We stayed in the family cottage. Our accommodations were top notch! The hosts made sure that we had everything we needed including fresh eggs! We felt like we were O Hana (family)! Highly recommended with five stars!"

Reviewed on 15 Jul 2025

Gods Peace Of Maui
Lumeria Maui Educational Retreat Center

Lumeria Maui Educational Retreat Center

3.5 out of 5
1813 Baldwin Ave, Makawao, HI
The price is ฿12,565 per night from 10 Aug to 11 Aug
฿12,565
฿17,489 total
10 Aug - 11 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3.5-star boutique hotel in Makawao. Enjoy free breakfast, on-site spa services and a garden. Popular attractions Hali imaile Farmer's Market and ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (206 reviews)
"A wonderful, off-the-beaten path experience away from all the tourists."

Reviewed on 31 May 2025

Lumeria Maui Educational Retreat Center
Maui Coast Hotel

Maui Coast Hotel

3.5 out of 5
2259 S Kihei Rd, Kihei, HI
The price is ฿7,246 per night from 23 Aug to 24 Aug
฿7,246
฿10,036 total
23 Aug - 24 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3.5-star hotel in Kihei. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, 2 outdoor pools and 3 hot tubs. Our guests praise the breakfast and the pool in their reviews. Popular ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (2,097 reviews)
"Friendly and caring staff. Clean and quiet."

Reviewed on 6 Aug 2025

Maui Coast Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Maui Beach Vacation Club

Maui Beach Vacation Club

2.5 out of 5
515 S. Kihei Road, Kihei, HI
Stay at this beach aparthotel in Kihei. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and a beach locale. Our guests praise the helpful staff in their reviews. Popular attractions ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (774 reviews)
"The property was clean, beautiful, and close to the beach."

Reviewed on 4 Aug 2025

Maui Beach Vacation Club
Aston Maui Hill

Aston Maui Hill

3 out of 5
2881 S Kihei Rd, Kihei, HI
Stay at this 3-star aparthotel in Kihei. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and a 24-hour front desk. Our guests praise the helpful staff in their reviews. Popular ...
9/10 Wonderful! (813 reviews)
"Nestled along the stunning coastlines of Maui, the Aston Maui Resort is a beautiful, well-finished property that offers the perfect blend of island elegance and the comforting warmth of home. From the moment you arrive, you’re welcomed into a serene paradise that feels both luxurious and inviting. ..."

Reviewed on 4 Aug 2025

Aston Maui Hill
Castle Kama'ole Sands

Castle Kama'ole Sands

3 out of 5
2695 S Kihei Road, Kihei, HI
Stay at this 3-star condo in Kihei. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and a fitness centre. Our guests praise the helpful staff in their reviews. Popular attractions ...
8/10 Very Good! (2,248 reviews)
"Location amazing. Grounds are beautiful and the pool area is perfect. Our suite could have had some maintenance, but loved the size for our family of 6"

Reviewed on 23 Jul 2025

Castle Kama'ole Sands
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Popular places to visit

Things to do

Cities near Makawao